Finding 'ah ha' moment

Tuesday

Mar 26, 2013 at 12:01 AM

Editor: Since March is National Intellectual Disability Month, I wanted to take a moment to share with your readers the joy of giving and getting in return.

Editor: Since March is National Intellectual Disability Month, I wanted to take a moment to share with your readers the joy of giving and getting in return.One Sunday morning while I was sitting in church, the minister asked the congregation if they had ever had an "ah ha" moment when they experienced the presence of God. I am not sure that I heard the remainder of the sermon that day, as I began searching my memory to identify such a moment in my life.Through my searching, I realized that I am a blessed person who has a forgiving God, a wonderful husband, a loving family and a job that I enjoy showing up for each day. Yet, I could not recall a time like the minister described. It was not until several months passed by that I found "the moment."At this time, tears filled my eyes. I was standing at the Special Olympics Spring Games at Central Davidson High School listening to one of the athletes read the Athletes' Oath — "Let me win. But, if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt." This oath I have heard many times, but that day I recalled the minister's message clearly. This was my "ah ha" moment.I recognized what drives my love and compassion for my job as a therapist for intellectually disabled children, as well as the reason I volunteer in Special Olympics. Their enjoyment of life regardless of disability is like an "ah ha" reminder each day how fortunate I am to be a part of their lives. I encourage you to get involved through Special Olympics for your own experience in those "ah ha" moments. Natalie LittleGold Hill